Hands down, my nana won’t be at the Christmas

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped
• 1 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
• 2 cups cooked sweet potatoes, mashed
• 1/2 cup milk or cream
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish, preferably a 9×13-inch, with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Mix the Topping
In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and chopped nuts. Stir well until evenly combined and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, milk or cream, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well-blended and smooth. If desired, fold in the raisins or dried cranberries for a burst of holiday flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the brown sugar and nut topping over the sweet potato mixture, ensuring even coverage.

Step 5: Bake
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and slightly caramelized. The sweet potato mixture should be set, and the whole dish should have a fragrant aroma.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish can be enjoyed warm and pairs beautifully with ham, turkey, or even by itself as a rich and sweet holiday side.

Why This Dish is So Special

1. A Sweet Tradition
   Nana’s recipe has been passed down through the generations, holding years of memories. Every bite brings nostalgia, from childhood Christmases to family reunions. This dish is more than just food—it’s a piece of our history.
2. Perfectly Balanced Flavors
   The combination of sweet and nutty flavors with the comforting warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg makes this dish stand out. The creamy sweet potatoes and the crunch of nuts create a delightful texture that’s irresistible.
3. Versatile and Customizable
   While Nana’s original recipe includes raisins, she often adds a touch of her own creativity each year, experimenting with ingredients like dried cranberries, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of ginger. Feel free to make it your own, as it’s a recipe that welcomes personal touches.
4. Loved by All Ages
   This recipe has a timeless appeal. Even the kids can’t resist the warm, sweet flavors, and the adults love the nostalgic element it brings. It’s a hit with everyone at the table, young and old.

Wrapping Up a Holiday Favorite

This year, as we gather around the holiday table, we’ll miss my Nana’s laughter, but her presence will be felt in every serving of this dish. It’s a way for her to be with us, bringing her love and warmth to each plate. If you’re looking to create a new holiday tradition, this recipe may just become your family’s favorite.

Give it a try, and enjoy the cozy flavors that have filled our home for generations. Nana would be proud to know her recipe continues to bring joy, year after year!